Simple DIY Home Fitness Equipment Repair

Almost half of all Americans make New Year’s resolutions, and their No. 1 pledge is to lose weight, according to Statistic Brain. But that goal is hard to accomplish with a home gym that’s out of service.

Treadmills use a high-efficient, low-friction deck, so the deck and belt must be kept clean. If the deck stops running smoothly, unplug the machine and use a soft, damp cloth to wipe the belt edge and frame. Then spray a towel with lubricant and wipe it down to reduce friction. You should also vacuum underneath the treadmill to get any dirt, dust and hair, which can block air inlets and get stuck in the inner workings.

If the belt isn’t running straight, adjust it back to the center. If it continues to pull to the side, a technician may be needed to replace it.

Elliptical and Stepper Troubleshooting

To help prevent problems, tighten all the nuts and screws periodically and lubricate squeaky joints.

If your machine’s display stops working, first make sure it’s properly plugged in, that the outlet is powered, and that any safety keys or switches are in the correct position. If it still doesn’t turn on, unplug the elliptical or stair stepper and check the console for loose connections. You should also examine the elliptical or stepper for broken parts, loose nuts and bolts, or unsecured pieces.

Sometimes a minor adjustment can fix your elliptical and stepper. If it’s a major problem, however, call a Sears Appliance Expert for help.

Exercise Bikes

There are many types of exercise bikes, and they use different mechanics to function. You can usually fix a broken belt at home by removing the plastic casing, pulling off the old belt and threading a new one over the belt wheel and around the pulleys.

If the resistance on the bike is jerky or stalled, it may need a new flywheel, or an adjustment of the magnetic field or other mechanical elements that create resistance. These fixes are best done by a certified technician.

Weight Machine

Safety is key when fixing a weight system. If any part of the support structure breaks, it needs to be replaced. If the padded part of the bench, known as the slat, is broken — but not warped — you can keep the bench structure but should replace the slat by unbolting it and attaching a new one.

After you make any necessary repairs, test the bench for stability under weight. If it wobbles or pieces are loose, tighten any bolts, and consider again whether it’s safe to use.

Now your home gym should be conditioned and ready for all of those upcoming sweat sessions you promised yourself. Who’s with us?

It’s hard enough to squeeze in a workout, much less find time to try fixing a broken machine. Good news: Repairing fitness equipment is one of our strengths. No matter where you bought your elliptical, stair stepper, treadmill, exercise bike or weight machine, Sears can repair it.